The focused client care experience: preparing for entry–level practice

This article briefly describes the development of an Associate Degree Nursing Focused Client Care experience in the Community College setting. Discussion follows of a method for introducing the senior level nursing student to a “real life” clinical environment. The purpose of the focused client care experience is to assist the students to transition into an entry–level practice by providing a clinical experience that simulates the entry–level work experience. The article discusses the development of an eight week experience that includes a personal and professional development plan, a reflective journal, and specific objectives and topics for discussion each week.Best practices for faculty, administration and students are presented with discussion of the need to provide an enhanced clinical experience outside of the traditional preceptor model. This model has enjoyed success in this Community College and should be adaptable to other Community College environments.